I hate being a grown-up. Having to learn things I don’t want to know really pisses me off. Overheard, quoted by Barbara Sher

Having more money does not ensure happiness. People with ten million dollars are no happier than people with nine million dollars. Hobart Brown

People who work sitting down get paid more than people who work standing up. Ogden Nash

Ever notice that even the busiest people are never too busy to tell you just how busy they are? Anon

The hardest thing in the world to understand is the income tax. Albert Einstein

August's full Moon, which occurs on August 7 in the United States and August 8 in Australia, is a partial lunar eclipse. It is the lunar eclipse that ushers in the total solar eclipse that occurs on August 21 (which will be a much bigger eclipse event). This lunar eclipse will be visible over eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Click here to learn more about it's celestial machinations.

This eclipse is a partial one, it is not a total one by any means, but, it is no less a powerful one. The full Moon energy of this event is heightened by the strong presence of Mars a little less than four degrees away from a conjunction with the Sun and an opposition with the Moon. So, this could be a rather 'explosive' eclipse, and, it is likely to feel rather incendiary as a result of the last several days of the Sun and Mars traveling through Leo together. In other words, we may feel like the pressure has been building and building, and, this full Moon could see the need for a strong release of energies, at least in some measure.

Another pressure builder could be the very close square aspect between Jupiter and Pluto. This has been going on for months, but, the expression of these energies squaring each other is heightened by the Sabian Symbols involved. With Jupiter on the "TWO MEN PLACED UNDER ARREST ARE BROUGHT BEFORE THE TRIBUNAL OF SOCIETY TO GIVE AN ACCOUNTING FOR THEIR ACTIONS", and, Pluto on "THE UNION JACK FLIES FROM A NEW BRITISH WARSHIP", and the Symbol for the lunar eclipse being "A BIG BUSINESSMAN AT HIS DESK", we can see a definitive story of some people being seen to be doing wrong by society, having to explain themselves or their actions, issues to do with sentencing and jail terms, courts, judgments, businesses, rorts, etc, along with military build-ups, who is in whose territory, the industrial military complex - the whole works. As I write this, there is a build up of US naval warships around Japan, and, there have been a lot of military exercises by the US, Korea, Russia, China, etc.

With Pluto on 'The Warship' degree, there has been a lot of military posturing, along with what could be described as 'argy-bargy' behaviour. Jupiter and Pluto squaring off tends to bring up the idea of 'my word is law', and 'you can't win an argument with me', or, there can be a feeling that one's ideas, thoughts, beliefs, etc, bring up such huge opposition that it can feel really confronting to 'go there' - we may feel it's best to just back down instead of taking on arguments, court cases, disputes, etc, that can turn out to be more trouble than they are worth, especially if the opponent appears to be so much more powerful.

These are very interesting and rather telling Symbols that we're seeing manifest around us. Of course, in our own lives, in our private moments, it is very likely to be a lot less charged. Still, we might want to see what 'excuses' are flying around, who is 'worthy' of being in our lives and who is not, etc. We may be very aware of defining our boundaries in order to bring a sense of protection, privacy or security. Political, social or religious ideologies can separate people who might have normally been friends, especially if one is defining themselves by these equations.

Adding an interesting dimension is the fact that Mercury goes retrograde on August 12 in the US and August 13 in Australia. Mercury turns retrograde just short of being exactly opposite retrograding Neptune, and, this is likely to show up as confusion, difficulty in getting the true story or picture, communication snafus, etc. All kinds of loose wiring in general could be going on. We may need to keep a diary, to write things down, do follow up calls to make sure everything is being understood, etc. This could be a somewhat bewildering time, but, it can also be a highly creative and spiritual time, especially if you pay particular attention to your intuition. Alcohol and drugs could contribute to a feeling of not being grounded, understood or heard.

In amongst it all, there is a promise of getting organised, more disciplined, more focussed on your objectives with Saturn in a trine with the Moon's north node. This aspect has been going on for some time, however, the message now is to not hide yourself away, to recognise where you might be doing menial work, work that is not rewarding, or, managing to get things done even if they don't feel satisfying or recognised. However, there is only so long we can feel that we are working away, day and night, without seeing much in return for our efforts. We may see a lot of good outcomes from truly taking a good look at what we would benefit most by and then sticking to a plan. A lot can be achieved during this time. What we might be seeing a lot of, though, is the rich getting richer - all that. The trick is to stay focused and positive and to not scatter our energies on jobs, projects, or, relationships that feel like they are just dead ends.

The full Moon each month marks a time of heightened energies and events. It often marks the culmination of the energies released at the new Moon. Emotions can be supercharged as the Sun and Moon are on opposite sides of the zodiac and illumination is increased - it's like we can see in the dark - and we can be hyper-aware as well as being hyper-awake. The effects of a full Moon can be major or minor, depending on how they interact with your own chart. Sometimes, realisations or events that are unleashed, or unlocked, can stretch their meaning months into the future. A lot can be learned at the time of the full Moon and whether it's lunacy or illumination, or a combination of both, there's magic unleashed with every full Moon. And, all of this is particularly strong at the time of a lunar eclipse!

There's more that can be said about all of this, but, it is covered in the list of Sabian Symbols for the planets below.

Please help by donating to this newsletter, the website, this work continuing...

The lunar eclipse is on Aquarius 16: A BIG-BUSINESSMAN AT HIS DESK - this Symbol could be asking us to step up and take care of 'business' in our lives. We may need to take charge, attend to our finances, know when to say yes and when to say no. To put it more precisely, we may need to more clearly define our lives in terms of our individual authority. Of course, we are seeing issues to do with 'big business', corporations, business rorts, money issues, etc, looming larger and larger with this eclipse.

Commentary: ‘A Big Businessman at His Desk’ reflects the need for organization, power and leadership. As the ‘Businessman’ is seen as being ‘Big’, he probably has much to look after; details, finances, paperwork, possibly for a large business or group. He can’t truly be successful if he doesn’t have control over the various aspects of his work life. ‘His Desk’ must be in order and he needs a healthy command of his sphere of operations.

Oracle: This Symbol implies the need to feel confident and able to operate efficiently in the ‘Business’ world. Sometimes ‘Business’ takes up so much time in our lives that we forget to unwind and talk and think about anything else. How often and for how long does one have to be ‘At His Desk’? Are ‘Business’ considerations more important than home and family or health? Someone in this situation may be unable to get directly involved in life, but have to stay behind and attend to details and do the organizing. Feeling ‘Big’, confident, assured and proud of one’s achievements can lead to expanded feelings about what one is capable of doing and contributing. Someone may have to stand up and declare what is and isn’t desirable, ethical or possible. Emotional reactions may be out of place here; employing a rational manner may be what’s needed to resolve things. Then again, emotions may not be playing any part and maybe that’s the issue. Perhaps someone is being rather cold and possibly cut-off in the pursuit of their objectives. This Symbol asks: Are you organized, or do you have a huge mess piling up in your life? Are you taking notice of necessary details? Are you living your life the way you think is best for your future, your relationships and physical well being? Perhaps there’s a need for more creativity, more time for your emotional and spiritual life. After all, allowing creative and emotional energy to flow will most likely increase your business success.

Keywords: Issues of being happy in one’s career. Making decisions. Management. Being in charge and in control. Calling the shots. The head rules the heart. Delegating duties or jobs. Economic rationalism. Sorting paperwork. Corporations. Keeping a diary. Striking a balance between having a life and doing all that needs to be done. Desks, telephones, computers, faxes, etc. Details and more details.

The Caution: Taking advantage. Bossing others. Shoving people around. Getting depressed about work. Always being “on the job”. Talking about money and business constantly. Greediness. Exploiting people and events for personal gain. Having difficulty retiring. The removal of the “little people”. Not doing the paperwork. Brushes with the law. Being a workaholic. .

The Karmic Degree for the Moon is Aquarius 15: TWO LOVEBIRDS SITTING ON A FENCE AND SINGING HAPPILY - is there an issue in your life that has you, or others, 'sitting on the fence'? Not committing, not going one way or the other, OR, are you ready now to really call for a commitment to making a move?

The wavering multitude is divided into opposite factions. Virgil

This shows the need to enjoy relationships, to share in the joy and camaraderie that can come from being part of a couple, or enjoying your friends and their relationships. "Singing" and making statements about love can bring happiness to those nearby and lift the spirits of all involved. There may be a feeling of contentment, pleasure, commitment and enjoyment of your partnership. However, is this really based on taking an uninvolved or non-committed position - "Sitting on a Fence"? Perhaps you find it difficult to actually commit one way or the other. To choose invites risks of separation, but conviction probably eventually needs to be chosen or rejected.

Keywords: Faith in love. Waiting for signs. Friendship and companionship. Issues of "that's them and this is us". Fences, borders and barriers. Showing love for all to see. Commitment to relationship. Mating for life. The need for honest communications. Singing. Speaking one's truth.

The Caution: Sitting on the fence. Complaining about relationships. Waiting to see what the others do. Being stuck when one would rather fly off and be free. Having a fixed position. Not wanting to comply with the other. Neighborhood disputes. Noises from next door. Boasting of happiness.

The Quest Degree for the lunar eclipse is Aquarius 17: A WATCHDOG STANDING GUARD, PROTECTING HIS MASTER AND HIS POSSESSIONS - this is a very interesting Symbol which can have people feeling rather worried, 'on guard', not able to let down their guard or their attention, feeling like something could 'go wrong'. It helps if we take notice of thoughts, emotions, sabotage mechanisms that can come up and take away our sense of peace and surety about our lives. Examining what is real and what is not can help enormously.

Gold will be slave or master. Horace

This shows "Protecting" one's people or boundaries, to be a "Watchdog Standing Guard". This can be a tiring responsibility, but one that has you feeling you belong and contribute to the safety and wellbeing of your loved ones, or perhaps those you work for. If not handled well, you may feel unsafe at times, needing to be alert to signs of trouble. This can be a good thing, but it can lead to paranoid behavior where you can't relax. Enlisting the support of trusted and loyal supporters may help, but you probably also need some self assurance. Watch out for false feelings of intrusion or betrayal.

Keywords: Guardianship. Things that stand guard and protect. Being on the alert against invasion or other trouble. Loyalty, possessiveness. Jealousy. The worry of loss. Alarm and security systems. Locks. Watchdogs. Being afraid of intrusion. Survival instincts. Bouncers and musclemen. Security guards. Constantly checking up. Sudden responses. Having one's ear to the ground for danger.

The Caution: Suspicion and paranoia that rob the joy of ownership. Being unable to let down one’s guard because of the possibility of invasion or attack. Feelings of being exposed. Possible betrayal. Greed. Envy. Lust for power. Having others do “the dirty work”. Stool pigeons. Spying. Stooges. Being the fall guy. Worrying endlessly about loss. Resenting intrusion. Jealousy.

The Sun is on Leo 16: BRILLIANT SUNSHINE JUST AFTER A STORM - this Symbol can speak about taking notice of the 'sunshine' and letting go of 'the storm'. It can also show how we can vacillate between the storm and the sunshine, the sunshine and the storm, especially at this lunar eclipse.

Most of the shadows of this life are caused by standing in one’s own sunshine. Ralph Waldo Emerson

This Symbol implies situations where storms come through one's life on a periodic basis; sweeping away elements of life that have been clogging up situations, clearing the air and resolving issues. It also shows the ability to be able to pick one's self up after some difficulty or crisis. The trick is to notice the gift of the brilliant sunshine as the clouds part and life takes on a calmer, happier tone. The worst is probably over and situations can resolve themselves; things dry out and recovery begins. There is probably always more cleaning up and work to be done, but one should enjoy the release and pleasure of the relief that follows a storm.

The Caution: Assuming that the storm will soon return. Being stuck in fear. Manic depression. Distorted viewpoints. Bouncing around from one emotion to another. Invoking arguments because of the reward of “making up”. Enjoyment of conflict. Plumbing problems. Refusing to move into the sunlight. Bi-polar behaviour. On-off behaviour..

The Quest Degree for the Sun is Leo 17: VOLUNTEER CHURCH CHOIR MAKES SOCIAL EVENT OF REHEARSAL - gathering together, doing deeds for others, giving of ourselves, lifting up our voices, etc, can make a big difference to our sense of community.

We do not exist for ourselves. Thomas Merton

This Symbol shows the spirit of giving without thought of reward and the gathering of people who endeavor to bring goodness and light to the community. You probably feel the need to be with those of like mind. Take the opportunity to share in their expressions of spiritual joy and shared faith. Unified voices need to be heard, whether they are taken seriously, or rewarded, or doing it for the sense of community their togetherness can bring. Singing and lifting one's voice can entertain and boost people's spirits. Take a chance with others by joining in social activities that bring light and fun to everyone concerned.

Keywords: Making the most of any situation. Feelings of togetherness. Rehearsing without worrying about what might happen. Doing things without thought of reward. Sharing community. Catching up on what others are doing. Busking and street singing. Learning to open up the throat. Charity work. Volunteers. Sharing food and drink. Small gifts for others. Dedication to ideals. Extending yourself by mixing in. Gatherings. Church or school halls.

The Sun symbolizes: One’s core center, spirit, heart, issues to do with father, men, self, ego, your male side. How you radiate your sense of being. What others see, how you are recognized or remembered, sense of identity and connection with male energy - yours and others.

Mercury is on Virgo 11: CHILDREN MOLDED IN THEIR PARENT'S ASPIRATIONS - this is likely to be a very strong issue at this eclipse as Mercury goes retrograde one degree past this degree. In other words, we will have Mercury sitting on this degree for several days, both before and after Mercury goes retrograde. We may find ourselves looking at issues where we, or others, feel that they have to live up to other's expectations. Finding a stronger sense of authenticity, and, seeing it in others, can help to reveal where expectations we have of ourselves, or, expectations that others have of us may be confining situations to mediocrity and stopping a more creative process from arising.

My mother said to me, “If you become a soldier you’ll be a general; if you become a monk you’ll end up as the pope.” Instead, I became a painter and wound up as Picasso. Pablo Picasso

This Symbol implies having to live up to others' expectations. It's fine to be moulded by people's desires or by our parents, but often this does not reflect our true potential. The "Parent" often misses the truth of the offspring and may be projecting their own unlived life. Taking back one's sense of individuality and going after what you really want will probably lead to more success in your life. Worrying about what others want, expect or think can lead to shallow choices or responses. On the other hand, this can show people being proud of what you've achieved and who you've grown into.

Keywords: Being directed on the journey or shaped against one's free will. Plastic or cosmetic surgery. Building the physical or emotional shape. Finding one's way or destiny. Predetermined destinies. Looking like one's mother or father. The challenge of individuality. DNA. Parents as patterns. Allowing others to dictate who you are. Inherited values. Following in the family's footsteps.

The Caution: Remaining tied to the apron strings of mother or others. Conforming to social expectations. Not having a clear sense of what one wants to be. Being a reflection of what somebody else wants. Being a “mummy’s boy”. Not having the free will of one’s own. Living the unlived life of the parents. Squashed individuality. Letting down the side.

The Karmic Degree for Mercury is Virgo 10: TWO HEADS LOOKING OUT AND BEYOND THE SHADOWS - the issue here can be one of taking other's thoughts into consideration. We may see a lot of polarization of views and opinions where it can be hard to know exactly what is really going on, or, what is likely to happen.

This Symbol implies the ability to see things from many sides, not just one. You may be able to, or need to, see things from two perspectives. This can be a marvelous asset, particularly with the Virgo ability to discriminate and make observations. This Symbol can also imply split personalities or not being able to make one's mind up. Further, it can show situations where two people are checking each other out, but aren't able, or allowed, to show themselves, they're "Beyond the Shadows". This Symbol asks that you look beyond situations and into the light. People may be afraid to take a chance, just 'looking out' and not moving forward.

Keywords: Duality of observation or thought. Being able to see both sides of a situation. Fear being the opposite of faith. People peering and peeking. Secret service and government agencies. Gunfights of the old west. Trench warfare. The media, the press, paparazzi, spies, private detectives. Conspiracy theories. Crossed eyes. Eavesdropping. Voyeurism.

The Caution: Confused by duality of thought. Failing to see the integration and cohesion of more than one perspective. Schizophrenia. Fear freezing up positive attitudes. Debates. Stalemates. Making assumptions without the relevant information. Quarrelling. Not seeing the light. Inability to agree. Bickering with others or with one's self.

The Quest Degree for Mercury is Virgo 12: A BRIDE WITH HER VEIL SNATCHED AWAY - Mercury soon goes stationary retrograde on this degree, and, in Australia, we see the issue of marriage equality coming up yet again. It will be interesting to see if anything actually happens instead of just a lot of talk and political posturing. This degree could see some 'tearing away their veil', lifting away the illusions that may have

Don’t compromise yourself. You’re all you’ve got. Janis Joplin

This Symbol implies the issue of 'unveiling' oneself in some way, and you, or someone else, can no longer hide behind a pretense or hide your light. You're likely to be faced with the moment of moving into a new life and a new sense of identity. Perhaps there's the feeling that you, or somebody, is not quite ready to give themselves completely to a relationship or situation, but they do not really have much choice. If one doesn't go willingly, they'll probably be pushed forward - finally taking the plunge. There can be an unveiling of one's true identity which can lead to some surprising realizations.

Keywords: Secret motives being revealed. Unveiling or changing identity. Proving oneself with no excuses and no pretense. Breaking down walls. Relating on a deep level. "Honeymoon periods". Being true to one's self and others. Marriage rituals. Dropping pretense. Divorce. Veils. Vows. The veil between the conscious and unconscious. A man in love is incomplete until he is married. Then he is finished. Zsa Zsa Gabor

The Caution: Stubbornly refusing to accept new directions. Failing to commit. Not coming up with what one promised. Feelings of violation. Not ready to give up fantasies or illusions. Being used or exposed. Harsh realities. Mysteries that may be best left that way. Withdrawal.

Venus is on Cancer 9: A SMALL, NAKED GIRL BENDS OVER A SPARKLING POND TRYING TO CATCH A FISH

This Symbol speaks of naivety, innocence, beauty and delight in simple things. The young child is trying to grasp at things that seem elusive and fleeting. You may find yourself unable to grasp the meaning of some things that happen in your life, but still fascinated by what is unfolding. Keeping a sense of delight and fun while going after what you want is likely to ultimately bring you the satisfaction you desire. Your position is comparatively innocent and your perceptions are probably rather limited, still lessons will be learnt about what is and what is not possible. Innocently reaching out for experiences can bring rewards and beauty. Curiosity. Infantile cravings. Fascination with the illusory, grasping at abstractions. Inexperienced sexuality. Childhood games. Objects that cannot be held or captured.

Keywords: Curiosity. Infantile cravings. Fascination with illusions. Grasping at abstract ideas. Longing for things. Going for the elusive. Taking advantage of the young and innocent. Objects that cannot be held or captured, only dreamt about. Fun found in simple activities. Childhood games. Communing with nature. Nakedness. Inexperienced sexuality. Splashing around.

The Caution: Being distracted by simple irrelevancies. The frustration of not getting what one wants. Going after the "sparkling and shining things", no matter how based in reality.

The Quest Degree for Venus is Cancer 10: A LARGE DIAMOND IN THE FIRST STAGES OF THE CUTTING PROCESS

This Symbol implies the beginning stages of things that are becoming something wonderful, useful and worthwhile. Things are always growing and perfecting and it seems that your position is just beginning to take shape and the potential is enormous, but there needs to be care and accuracy taken or all the work to date could be lost or spoilt. This situation has taken a long time to develop and comes from a deep organic essence. Keep cutting away the unnecessary and the flawed and you'll emerge with a wonderful gem as this Symbol implies riches and talent and beauty.

Keywords: Coming to terms with inner worth. Emerging perfection. Beauty that is still a bit "rough around the edges". Naivety. Beauty that is within, even if it has flaws. Potential. Chopping and grinding awayto get to the essential. Being almost, but not completely, perfect. Reserving judgment. Self-development courses. Knowing where to start or finish. Craftsmanship. Finding the best in everything.

The Caution: Leaving an important job unfinished. Seeing the flaws not the inherent beauty. Being afraid to take the first stab at something. Being overwhelmed by importance and value. Being overprotective or insecure. Not seeing the whole picture. Things unformed and incomplete. A “diamond in the rough”, someone lacking social polish.

Venus symbolizes: Relatedness, cooperation, what attracts you. The experience of sweetness, beauty or delight. Social interactions, love, friends, how you reach out to people. Feminine persona, relationship with mother and females. Money, possessions, sense of values.

Mars is on Leo 12: AN EVENING LAWN PARTY OF ADULTS

This Symbol shows having fun, relaxing and socializing with people, usually in an informal setting, although this can sometimes imply formal ones. Give the rigors of the work routine a rest. Having a drink, eating some food, sharing a chat and gossip, meeting new people, networking and catching up with friends is good for the soul. Relaxation is great, especially where there is no need for pretense. Of course, you may be the host of the party and you may have to provide a venue, food, drinks and entertainment. Still, you should get to enjoy the moment and mix with people.

Keywords: Rising above superficiality into receptivity and peace with others. People mixing in a social setting. Sedate and conservative celebrations. Formal events vs. impromptu gatherings. Gossip. Leisure time. Political correctness. Enjoying socializing. Being a good conversationalist. Drinks and food on platters. Knowing who to invite.

The Caution: A sense of superficiality where things are known but not said out loud. Appearance and social standing taking on too much importance. Ignoring real and immediate issues. Not knowing how to act with the “adults”. Malicious gossip. Having to face those you don’t want to see. Getting drunk and “out of bounds”. False fronts.

The Karmic Degree for Mars is Leo 11: CHILDREN ON A SWING IN THE SAFETY OF A HUGE OAK TREE

This Symbol shows the need, or the desire, to be protected, to have a safe, fun place to be and live where life is carefree and to be enjoyed. It is easier to relax into carefree, child-like play when your protection, safety and security are ensured. You may feel like some relief from responsibility, or you may provide this umbrella of protection for others. There is a need to be safe in the knowledge that everything will remain secure. It is good to keep in touch with the innocence and openness of youthful attitudes. Oak trees infer enormous inner strength, dependability and protection from the harsh realities of life.

The Caution: Expecting others to take responsibility while one just plays. Feeling disadvantaged. Lack of protection. No place to feel safe. Not wanting to grow up.

The Quest Degree for Mars is Leo 13: AN OLD SEA CAPTAIN ROCKING ON THE PORCH OF HIS COTTAGE

This Symbol shows the need for quiet reflection, to look back at past experiences, especially those times that were threatening or exhausting in some way. Take some time for a little solitude and contemplate the overall picture of your life. You may want to read, go over past memories, indeed, write your memoirs. When back into the business of life you will be refreshed and have a better idea of how you fit in and what you want to achieve. Symbol can sometimes indicate wanting to retire and withdraw from life too much so that it interferes with the ability to make a living or feel like contributing to society.

Keywords: Retreating into one's self. Reflecting. Quiet confidence. Knowing that one can conquer life's storms and come out wiser. Observing life from afar. Wanting to opt out. Retirement, pensions and pension plans. Being dismissed from one's job. Redundancy. The story of one's life. Memoirs. Rocking chairs and verandahs. Contemplation. Gardening. Longing for calmer days. Letters, diaries, photographs. Houses, cottages. Taking a break from society.

The Caution: Ignoring what is possible now in favor of memories. Inability to get going. Being lazy and immobile. Being a lounge-lizard. Wanting others to look after you.

Mars symbolizes: Drive, determination or agenda, how you get to your goals. How you express and handle anger, ambition, assertion of self and ability to step forward. The male principle, sexuality, the ability to step up to the plate when one needs to. Fight or flight.

Jupiter is on Libra 18: TWO MEN PLACED UNDER ARREST ARE BROUGHT BEFORE THE TRIBUNAL OF SOCIETY TO GIVE AN ACCOUNTING FOR THEIR ACTIONS - this is a very interesting degree at this time, particularly as Jupiter and Pluto are in an exact square at the moment. It is instructive to note that this is the degree of Donald Trump's Jupiter, and, amongst other investigations, there is a Grand Jury impaneled. It will be very interesting to watch what happens. On a more personal level, this can be a good time to 'remove the handcuffs' around situations, relationships, memories, etc. This degree can show where we might be stuck in situations that inhibit our freedoms, especially if we want to say something about someone or something and feel stymied; when we can't say what we want to say, we can't move forward the way we want to, we feel some injustice is being done. It can be through imagining the 'handcuffs' being taken off, the strings and ties that no longer work being cut, etc, that we can free ourselves for bigger and better outcomes.

This Symbol implies the periodic need for people to step up to the line and explain themselves, or to justify some actions or ways of being, particularly in relationships. Sometimes our ideas or actions are under criticism, to the point of feeling that someone has offended social acceptability. Be thoughtful about situations, because problems you face may only exist in your own mind, stopping you from having fruitful relationships because of a lack of trust or a failed relationship in your past. You may need to forgive or feel forgiven. Relationships can be held in abeyance until the facts come to light. Things resolve themselves as time goes by.

Keywords: Having to plead one’s case. The need for “legal help”. Unacceptable principles. Blowing the whistle. Pointing at others to get off charges. People unable to relate. The “Romeo and Juliet” story. Feeling caught out. Restrictions. Karma to be worked out. Being framed. Circumstances out of control. People in handcuffs. Identification parades. Police. The law. Lawyers. Judges. Juries. Tribunals. Police states. Breaking laws.

The Caution: Refusing to conform. Sabotage of relationship values. Feeling stuck, unable to move. Staying in relationships when one should go. Deadening emotions. Shutting off to cope. Not having one’s point of view heard. Losing one’s authority. Being bound karmically. Being tied up and limited.

The Karmic Degree for Jupiter is Libra 17: A RETIRED SEA CAPTAIN WATCHES SHIPS ENTERING AND LEAVING THE HARBOR - we've been experiencing this degree for several days, and, we might wonder how to negotiate some of the 'storms' in our lives. It sometimes pays to sit and watch and contemplate before making any major moves with this degree around, particularly as we have Mercury retrograde coming up. Of course, we can't sit still forever navel gazing. Once we get a better picture of what's happening, we can go back out into life and get on with the business we need to be getting on with. Jupiter here, though, can be telling us that it's good to take a break now and then.

This Symbol speaks of the necessity in life of finding time for quiet recollection. You may feel that the stormy, unpredictable, emotional life is something you can, or need to, leave behind; to opt out. But like the sea captain, there will always be the frustration in the desire to return and get back amongst it. An objective and calm understanding of life's experiences is available, but know when to rest and when to be active and work as merely looking out at the world from a confined perspective and feeling like you have no choice but to sit and watch is unlikely to bring the world to you.

Keywords: Memories and peaceful contemplation. Disconnection from the past. Concentrating on more immediate circumstances. Fatigue and the need for rest. Being a spectator rather than a participant. Being part of an audience. Voyeurism. Turning to domestic pursuits. Writing one's memoirs. Nostalgia. Safe ports or harbors. Retiring from public life.

The Caution: A cop-out, escaping from reality. Relying on past experiences. A need to defend one’s shoreline. Losing faith in life. Staring at lost opportunities and times gone by. Not wanting to contributing any more. Losing interest in the struggle. Disillusionment. Frustration. Boredom.

The Quest Degree for Jupiter is Libra 19: A GANG OF ROBBERS IN HIDING - the 'gang of robbers' can often be the thoughts, beliefs, actions, etc, that rob us of our sense of ease. We would do well to identify what thoughts are of no use to us now.

This Symbol implies that you may feel you have been wronged or something has been taken from you. Often, there is no real way of finding who or what is the cause. It often happens that the feelings of loss or being taken advantage of are mostly in your own mind, making it difficult to trust or even to know how to trust. Make sure that there is no undermining of faith by indulging in suspicions that are ungrounded in reality. You could spend time searching for perpetrators, but a better solution is probably to get on with your life. However, do take precautions so you're not easily taken advantage of. Things will most probably come to light when they are meant to.

Keywords: Gaining unfair advantage. Robbers and thieves. Spying. The cold war. Big business ripping off the "little guy". People appearing to be something that they are not. Con-men mentality. Holding up proceedings. Mental attitudes that sabotage, restrict or control. The need for light. Voyeurism. Gangs. Private detectives. Ambushes.

The Caution: Gaining unfair advantage at someone else’s expense. Finding it hard to trust anything. Difficult hidden energy that may erupt into consciousness. Feeling that someone is going to “get” you. Hiding in the shadows. Locks and shutters that prevent true relationship. Unbalanced mental states. Paranoia. Distrusting life.

Saturn is stationing direct in on Sagittarius 22: A CHINESE LAUNDRY - Saturn is sitting on this degree for several weeks. It can bring up issues to do with being recognised, being paid well for our efforts, having a sense of accomplishment and belonging. Stereotyping of one's self and others can get in the way of the cleansing we may need to be doing at the moment. Perhaps things need to 'come out in the wash'?

This Symbol pictures situations where people may not be taken seriously, are expected to perform in a stereotypical way or are shut away because of their culture, or language, or because of racial prejudice. In a "Chinese Laundry" people are often working very hard with little free time and expected to do the 'dirty work' for others for very little in return. Be careful not to shut yourself away as there can be the danger of closing your mind to other options, opportunities and possibilities. This can also picture situations where people are working closely together, speaking the same language, although here, too, there can still be alienation and loneliness.

Keywords: Restrictive expectations. Relations with others because of social duty. Performing tasks. Mediocrity, or the fear of it. Washing machines and dryers. Money and other laundering. Laws and legislation based on social and racial inequality. Issues of belonging. Cleaning up for others. The search for purity. Institutions that inhibit individuality. Convents. Stereotyping people. Work and the rewards it should bring.

The Caution: Giving in to prejudice. Self-inflicted sense of inferiority that can lead to missed opportunities for relating. Feeling trapped with no way out. Not being taken seriously. Doing menial jobs with little reward or real return. Slave labor. Lack of individual identity. Shutters to keep the world out

The Quest Degree for retrograde Saturn is Sagittarius 23: A GROUP OF IMMIGRANTS FULFILLING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTERING A NEW COUNTRY - Saturn recently spent several weeks on this degree, and, it will again in coming weeks. After a period of integrating new realities into our lives, we may feel that we are ready to move into new territory with a fresh new understanding of what life is asking of us.

This Symbol shows finding a new way of life, a new country or nationality, or new place to live and raise a family. It shows the possibility and hope for better things and a new way of life. Whether you are an "Immigrant" or someone looking to move onto new territory, you need to be prepared to venture out into new adventures for the promise that's offered. Once you've "Fulfilled the Requirements", you can move into this brand new life and reap the rewards. There may need to be adjustments about the way one communicates one's thoughts and ideas - be receptive to this new way of life and you'll learn much. Reorientation of self. Learning new languages or customs. Passing tests (or not). Asylum. Immigration. The Statue of Liberty. Papers. Qualifications. Refugees. Laws. Borders.

Keywords: Reorientation of selfhood. Needing to change things in order to accept a new reality. The necessity of learning new languages or customs to fit in. Visas, passports, papers. Illegal immigrants. Boat people. Customs officials and regulations. Baggage and luggage. Shipping. Qualifications and certifications. Identification. Asylum. Immigration officers. Papers and qualifications that include or exclude. Refugees. Laws. Borders. Ellis Island. Throwing away the known in pursuit of the unknown.

The Caution: Inflexible traditions. The pursuit of the unknown. Rigid border controls. Customs restrictions. Being rejected and sent back. Not filling out the paperwork. Lack of credentials.

Uranus is stationing retrograde on Aries 29: THE MUSIC OF THE SPHERES - I particularly like this degree, and, Uranus is spending several weeks here. Listening to music, noticing the night sky, seeing the rhythms of life around us can be very revealing. I see this degree as not only about music: It is very much a degree of astrology, in amongst other things. Uranus here feels like astrology is going to gather more and more attention.

This Symbol speaks of the beauty of music and harmony and it is particularly intuitive. It doesn't matter if things are going well or not, if you are in tune with the inner voice, this can show an inner accord with your path. Savor the lessons that come and know that everything happens in its own time and you'll grow in wisdom. 'The Music of the Spheres' can show attuning to the messages of astrology, numerology, mathematics and science. Sing, tune into the planets, listen to music, dance and celebrate life.

Keywords: Voices bringing messages. Attuning to the messages inherent in astrology. Harmonies, chords, keys, octaves, tones. Things heard. Natural harmony of life. The beauty of the planets. The measurement of time. Circadian rhythms. Dancing to the wind. The humming of bees. Days of the week. The sound of water over rocks or crystals. The planets speaking through or to you. Sending love. The atomic clock. Harmonics. Musical ratios. Numbers. Numerology. Sound healing.

The Caution: Inflating rational ideas. Delusion or enlightenment? Getting lost in abstractions. Rejecting what’s obvious on an intuitive level in favor of more intellectual answers. Loving the sound of your own voice. Not listening to obvious messages.

Uranus symbolizes: The unexpected, things that are individual or 'different'. Charged, energetic dynamics, electricity, light, lightning bolts, sudden changes, those who live on the fringe of society. Sudden turns and twists of fate. Rebellion, surprises, liberation, freedom.

Neptune is retrograde on Pisces 14: A LADY WRAPPED IN FOX FUR

This shows being able to present an image that shows intelligence, cleverness, glamour and beauty, along with knowing how to move in social circles. The "Lady Wrapped in Fox Fur" is someone who's sure of themselves, able to bend to situations and have situations bend to their own desires. It often shows getting out of, or into, anything they want. You can present an image that enhances your position in society. Intelligence and wit will probably see you through, with others noticing your beauty, grace or intellect. If, however, the guise was stripped away, would you still express the same qualities? You may have to display your capabilities because of negative prejudice, chauvinism, or being underestimated.

Pluto is retrograde on Capricorn 18: THE UNION JACK FLIES FROM A NEW BRITISH WARSHIP

This Symbol talks about supervision, border protection and control. There can be a feeling of having to oversee a large 'empire' where reliability and leadership are vital. This can be a tiring responsibility, but there can be an awareness of the protection of 'all who went before'. However, political and social restraints from the past could be causing you to feel that you've somehow got to 'wage war'. Issues to do with the government can come up, whether you agree with what they do or not. You may be confronted with having to make your presence felt and guard your territory. Effective supervision will help you to relax.

Keywords: Colonialism. Protectionism. The government, big business and the media. Class-consciousness. Power and political displays. Displays of "law and order". Border patrols and protection. Strength and might. Nationalism. Royalty. The ruling elite. Supervision. The armed forces. Patrols. Pitting people against each other. Empires. Victory bringing riches. The mother country. The struggle against decline. Flags. Imperialism. The Commonwealth. The rule of law. Brexit.

The Caution: Artificial shows of strength. Bullying from the “big guys”. Being armed “to the teeth”. Strong-arm tactics. Disrespect for authority. People or institutions that throw their weight around. Anarchy. Traitors. Being anti-establishment. Social disintegration. War games. Civil wars. Feeling squeezed by authority. Rebellion. Civilian lives lost for political causes. Governing forces that deny individual rights. Invasions. Being defensive.

Chiron is retrograde on Pisces 29: LIGHT BREAKING INTO MANY COLORS AS IT PASSES THROUGH A PRISM

This shows analyzing things, considering and drawing conclusions from available data and being perceptive of colors, light refraction or reflection, auras and light. You probably have the ability to break situations down into the simplest components in order to see the full picture. This can and often does lead to a greater understanding of the relationship between the whole and the many parts. Just be careful not to overanalyze, thereby losing the joy that's inherent in the simplicities of life. Taking a single vision and turning it into many individual streams can be rewarding, but it can also confuse and distract.

The Caution: Locked in to a set of parameters. Over analyzing things. Being blinded by ambition. Diffracted personalities. Mirages. Using instruments yet not seeing things as they really are.

Chiron symbolizes: Our wounds, Chiron is known as The Wounded Healer. The wounds are The Stories That We Tell Ourselves, it is where we have to focus on healing, it can show things that are out of shape or misplaced or in need of repair.

The Moon's North Node is on Leo 25: A LARGE CAMEL CROSSING A VAST AND FORBIDDING DESERT

This Symbol implies the need to push ahead in difficult times, going alone and coping even in the most difficult circumstances. It also shows being self sufficient, or someone with a big journey to complete. You may find that your situation has been like an arduous journey, but there could still be further to go. Be confident that you have the reserves to survive and the endurance to succeed. Although you may like the company and assistance of others, in the end you can really rely only on yourself. Self sufficiency and mental self-control are necessary as is a commitment to get to the other side of your issue.

The Caution: Not preparing properly and running out of reserves. Feeling weighed down and in danger of not making it through. Not seeing the big picture. Lack of sustenance. Big plans with no back up. Taking on huge tasks when one shouldn’t. Being daunted by huge projects. Mirages that confuse objectives.

The Moon's North Node symbolizes: This is known as quite a 'karmic point' (although all planets and points in a chart can be'karmic'). One's destiny in this life. The things you are meant to integrate, move towards, become. Destined relationships and relationship issues can show up here.

The Moon's South Node is on Aquarius 25: A BUTTERFLY WITH THE RIGHT WING MORE PERFECTLY FORMED

This Symbol shows the ability, or the need, to find balance, to find your center so that you might be more effective, stable and organized. As the "Butterfly" has a "Right Wing More Perfectly Formed", you may be applying your rational logical mind out of balance to your intuitive and creative wisdom, or, vice versa. It is often harder to understand your intuitive messages, but reliance on logic can limit your possibilities. However, not applying logic can lead to big problems as well. There can be physical handicaps which may prevent one from truly doing what one wants, or strange imbalances on the spiritual level.

Keywords: Rising above life's distortions. A need to bring some type of balance to situations. Injuries or problems with hands or arms. One side being more 'Perfect' than the other. The 'Right' being better than the left. Mutations. Handicaps. Challenges. Disabilities. Impediments.

The Caution: Imbalances and physical distortions. Asymmetry. An imbalance of functions leading to involuntary flapping around. Distortions of reactions or of the truth. Lopsidedness. Hindrances. Being at a disadvantage. Feeling incapacitated. Mutations.

The Moon's South Node symbolizes: Past karmic patterns to be overcome, can be habits that are good, but can describe things, relationships, issues that you need to let go of, or, hold you back from manifesting your true destiny. Relationships that feel karmic and difficult, memories from the past.

Please help by donating to this newsletter, the website, this work continuing...

I hate being a grown-up. Having to learn things I don’t want to know really pisses me off. Overheard, quoted by Barbara Sher

Having more money does not ensure happiness. People with ten million dollars are no happier than people with nine million dollars. Hobart Brown

People who work sitting down get paid more than people who work standing up. Ogden Nash

Ever notice that even the busiest people are never too busy to tell you just how busy they are? Anon

The hardest thing in the world to understand is the income tax. Albert Einstein

August's full Moon, which occurs on August 7 in the United States and August 8 in Australia, is a partial lunar eclipse. It is the lunar eclipse that ushers in the total solar eclipse that occurs on August 21 (which will be a much bigger eclipse event). This lunar eclipse will be visible over eastern Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. Click here to learn more about it's celestial machinations.

This eclipse is a partial one, it is not a total one by any means, but, it is no less a powerful one. The full Moon energy of this event is heightened by the strong presence of Mars a little less than four degrees away from a conjunction with the Sun and an opposition with the Moon. So, this could be a rather 'explosive' eclipse, and, it is likely to feel rather incendiary as a result of the last several days of the Sun and Mars traveling through Leo together. In other words, we may feel like the pressure has been building and building, and, this full Moon could see the need for a strong release of energies, at least in some measure.

Another pressure builder could be the very close square aspect between Jupiter and Pluto. This has been going on for months, but, the expression of these energies squaring each other is heightened by the Sabian Symbols involved. With Jupiter on the "TWO MEN PLACED UNDER ARREST ARE BROUGHT BEFORE THE TRIBUNAL OF SOCIETY TO GIVE AN ACCOUNTING FOR THEIR ACTIONS", and, Pluto on "THE UNION JACK FLIES FROM A NEW BRITISH WARSHIP", and the Symbol for the lunar eclipse being "A BIG BUSINESSMAN AT HIS DESK", we can see a definitive story of some people being seen to be doing wrong by society, having to explain themselves or their actions, issues to do with sentencing and jail terms, courts, judgments, businesses, rorts, etc, along with military build-ups, who is in whose territory, the industrial military complex - the whole works. As I write this, there is a build up of US naval warships around Japan, and, there have been a lot of military exercises by the US, Korea, Russia, China, etc.

With Pluto on 'The Warship' degree, there has been a lot of military posturing, along with what could be described as 'argy-bargy' behaviour. Jupiter and Pluto squaring off tends to bring up the idea of 'my word is law', and 'you can't win an argument with me', or, there can be a feeling that one's ideas, thoughts, beliefs, etc, bring up such huge opposition that it can feel really confronting to 'go there' - we may feel it's best to just back down instead of taking on arguments, court cases, disputes, etc, that can turn out to be more trouble than they are worth, especially if the opponent appears to be so much more powerful.

These are very interesting and rather telling Symbols that we're seeing manifest around us. Of course, in our own lives, in our private moments, it is very likely to be a lot less charged. Still, we might want to see what 'excuses' are flying around, who is 'worthy' of being in our lives and who is not, etc. We may be very aware of defining our boundaries in order to bring a sense of protection, privacy or security. Political, social or religious ideologies can separate people who might have normally been friends, especially if one is defining themselves by these equations.

Adding an interesting dimension is the fact that Mercury goes retrograde on August 12 in the US and August 13 in Australia. Mercury turns retrograde just short of being exactly opposite retrograding Neptune, and, this is likely to show up as confusion, difficulty in getting the true story or picture, communication snafus, etc. All kinds of loose wiring in general could be going on. We may need to keep a diary, to write things down, do follow up calls to make sure everything is being understood, etc. This could be a somewhat bewildering time, but, it can also be a highly creative and spiritual time, especially if you pay particular attention to your intuition. Alcohol and drugs could contribute to a feeling of not being grounded, understood or heard.